Tesla Model S Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead
After reviewing every Tesla Model S we've analyzed (13 years), these are the 3 weakest. Each one has either an absolute low reliability score, chronic repair issues, or unusually high ownership costs relative to other Model S years.
Proceed with caution
2012 Tesla Model S
The 2012 Tesla Model S represents a revolutionary vehicle, but as an early adopter, it comes with a distinct set of reliability challenges. While offering impressive performance and cutting-edge technology, prospective owners must be prepared for potential high-cost repairs, especially concerning the battery, drive unit, and electrical systems. This is a car for the enthusiast prepared for a unique ownership experience, not for the budget-conscious seeking worry-free motoring.
Why this year scores low
The NVIDIA Tegra 3 eMMC flash memory in the MCU wears out, leading to system slowdowns, freezing, and eventual failure of the touchscreen, navigation, and other functions. Tesla issued a recall (20V-712) for an upgraded eMMC, but some early vehicles may still suffer.
Early Model S drive units, particularly the 85 kWh models, were prone to 'clicking' or 'rumbling' noises, often indicating premature wear of the bearings or gears. While some were replaced under warranty, out-of-warranty failures are extremely costly.
The flush-mounted, motorized door handles are prone to mechanical failure, often due to internal microswitches or gears breaking. The charging port actuator can also fail, preventing the charge cable from locking or releasing properly.
Proceed with caution
2013 Tesla Model S
The 2013 Tesla Model S is a groundbreaking vehicle that pioneered the EV movement, but its early production years were plagued by significant reliability issues. While its core powertrain is generally robust, owners must be prepared for common and often costly failures in its electrical systems, air suspension, and several critical interior components. Proceed with caution and a healthy repair budget for this innovative, yet imperfect, luxury EV.
Why this year scores low
The eMMC flash memory in the MCU1 wears out, leading to slow performance, black screen, loss of navigation, internet, and camera functionality. This is a widespread, critical failure for early Model S vehicles.
Common failures include air compressor failure, leaking air springs/struts, and ride height sensor malfunctions. This leads to uneven ride height, constant compressor cycling, or complete loss of air suspension function.
The retractable door handles are prone to mechanical failure, preventing them from presenting or retracting properly. This is a common and frustrating issue affecting all four handles.
Proceed with caution
2015 Tesla Model S
The 2015 Tesla Model S is an impressive technological marvel with exhilarating performance, but it demands a cautious approach due to several high-cost, common reliability issues. While its electric drivetrain eliminates many traditional failure points, owners should be prepared for significant electrical and accessory component repairs that can quickly diminish its otherwise strong appeal.
Why this year scores low
The NVIDIA Tegra 3 eMMC flash memory in the MCU has a finite lifespan, leading to slow performance, frequent reboots, and eventually complete failure of the touchscreen, navigation, and critical vehicle functions. This is a design flaw affecting most units.
The retractable door handles often fail due to internal microswitch corrosion, broken wiring, or motor wear, preventing the handle from presenting or retracting. This can be an intermittent or complete failure.
Components like the air compressor, air struts, and associated sensors can fail, leading to uneven ride height, constant compressor cycling, or complete loss of suspension dampening. Leaking struts are common.